An American Girl Getaway

Do you know what Addy, Molly, Lanie, Julie and Ivy all have in common? Chances are if you answered that they’re all members of the American Doll empire, it's because you have a daughter who is obsessed. At 3, my daughter is too young to know the difference between Kaya and her generic “baby doll,” but after a little research, it's pretty obvious this is no passing phenomenon. American Girl is more than a doll, it's a lifestyle and one which millions of little girls take very seriously.

The “American Girl” has her own magazine, furniture, clothes (which match your child’s), books, accessories and store complete with a café where you and your doll can dine and now, the ultimate American Girl package at LA’s luxury boutique, The Orlando Hotel, located on W 3rd street which is mere steps from the AG store at the Grove.

My daughter, Mira, and I were offered a taste of the American Girl experience when we went to check out the package with her “baby doll” in tow as a tester. Upon check in, Mira was presented with a welcome note addresses to her and “baby” which immediately thrilled her because what kid doesn’t like to open mail addressed to them? The letter welcomed them to the hotel and hinted that a “special bed” was prepared for them to enjoy during their stay and at home.

We excitedly made our way up to the room and as promised, found an American Girl bed with two gourmet chocolates on the pillow waiting for us. It’s not always easy for kids to adjust to being away from home, but as we discovered, experiencing a new place alongside a beloved doll provides an incredible sense of calm. While we didn’t spend the night, I could see how much Mira loved the bed, complete with pillow and blanket, and while she looked at it one way, I saw it as the gift of time knowing that if I needed to unpack, she would be perfectly content playing by herself. Priceless.

Next stop was the hotel library where numerous American Girl books were lined up on the shelves. If your child is of reading age, you yourself may actually get a moment to relax as your daughter will no doubt need some time to check out the collection.

Aside from walking over to the Grove to experience the incredible farmers market, first class shopping and of course, the American Girl store, the Orlando Hotel, which just went through a $6 Million renovation, has a pool where the kids can play or jump into a cozy chair to dive into that book.
Our final memento was a polaroid of the two of us +“baby” which Mira now keeps on her bookshelf. A special reminder of mother/daughter/doll bonding time that she won’t soon forget.

For $255/night, package includes:
· Custom greeting upon arrival, including the names of your daughter and her doll
· Photo upon arrival
· Specialty turn down service for both your daughter and her doll
· American Girl bed
· Breakfast for two